All types of distracted driving are dangerous. From applying makeup to eating to tending to children in the back seat, when a driver takes his or her attention away from the road the results can be deadly. One type of distracted driving is especially dangerous, which is why no one should ever try it.
A triple threat of distractions
The three main types of distracted driving are:
- Visual distraction: Safe driving requires constant visual attention. Drivers must constantly monitor the road, adjacent lanes and rearview mirrors for potential hazards. Looking down at a GPS device, the radio, or a cell phone, or looking in the back seat to talk to someone takes the eyes off of where they should be.
- Manual distraction: Most people remember being taught to keep the hands at “ten and two” on the steering wheel (although, now the recommended position is at nine and three.) Regardless, driving often requires quick turns, shifts and other actions conducted with the hands. If the driver’s hands are busy doing something else, precious split seconds are wasted.
- Cognitive distraction: Driving is such a potentially dangerous task that a driver’s mind must be alert and on task at all times. Thinking deeply about anything other than driving puts lives at risk.
The reason texting while driving is so dangerous is that it combines all three types of distraction at once. Whether a driver is sending or receiving a text message, he or she must look at the text, handle the phone and think about what is being communicated all at the same time.
We share this information in an effort to spread awareness of dangerous driving habits, in turn making our roads safer for everyone. Those who have been injured by distracted drivers and other careless parties should explore their legal options.